Unnecessary Exposure to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Patients (2011)

Undergraduate: Natalie Ridge

Faculty Advisor: Melissa Jackowski
Department: Radiologic Science

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Unnecessary Exposure to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Patients – An Evaluation of Current Practices

Neonatal patients are especially susceptible to the harmful effects of ionizing radiation as they are more radiosensitive than adults. This is due to their high cell mitotic rate making it easier to cause genetic mutations, their young age leads to lifetime manifestation of radiation doses that could induce cancer, and other physiological differences. The purpose of this study was to evaluate patient radiographs from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to determine if unnecessary body parts are exposed during commonly ordered exams. This study included a retrospective data review of x-ray images and reports associated with Neonatal Intensive Care Unit patients receiving chest radiographs from December 01, 2010 through January 31, 2011 at a level one trauma center in the south. The images were evaluated for centering techniques as well as collimated borders to determine whether unnecessary body parts were exposed to radiation during the exam. A literature review revealed standards for centering from a study in the United Kingdom and were adopted for this study.

This study describes the significance of evaluating current techniques/practices by radiologic technologists in the NICU. Protocol for imaging professionals should be established. Educational and informational sessions should be held by management to educate staff on the importance to protect children due to their radiosensitivity as well as teach them the new protocols.

This study further stresses the importance of protecting pediatric patients from unnecessary radiation exposure due to their increased radiosensitivity.